The Cook Labor Government has failed to confirm if promised funding to deliver a new Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) base in Geraldton would be included in the upcoming State Budget.
Member for Geraldton, Kirrilee Warr MLA, directly questioned the Minister for Health this week about the status of the $7.5 million election commitment.
However, the Minister refused to provide a clear update, instead stating that all election promises would be subject to the State Budget being announced next month.
“While the Health Minister hides behind the State Budget process, other Ministers have already started promoting election commitments, such as the Country Week Assistance Program and the new Burswood Park entertainment precinct, well in advance of the Budget,” Ms Warr said.
“Ever since the election campaign ended, it appears WA Labor no longer views the RFDS base in Geraldton as a priority, despite the urgent need for this project.”
Ms Warr said the RFDS was eager to secure the promised funding to begin planning to deliver a modern, high-quality base for the region.
“Currently, Geraldton Health Campus refers approximately 900 patients per year for inter-hospital transfers by RFDS – the highest number of any regional hospital in WA. This accounts for nearly 10 per cent of all RFDS patient transfer statement,” Ms Warr said.
“With the expansion of Geraldton Health Campus, the demand for both inbound and outbound patient transfer is expected to increase, further highlighting the need for a dedicated RFDS base in the region.
“For the Health Minister to remain silent on Labor’s own election promise for Geraldton just weeks before the State Budget is concerning,” Ms Warr said.
Ms Warr also criticised the Labor Government for underfunding the project, with only half of the required amount committed.
“The Nationals WA pledged $12 million during the election campaign to ensure this important project for Geraldton was fully funded,” Ms Warr said.
“RFDS claim the total cost for the base and establishing an aeromedical service is estimated to be between $12-$15 million, yet the State Government has only committed half the funding needed.
“Without additional funding, this project may not be able to move forward.”
Ms Warr called on the Health Minister to provide assurances that funding would be delivered ahead of the State Budget.
“If we wait until after the State Budget is announced, it will be too late. The time to act is now.
“Otherwise, this important project risks facing delays like we have seen with WA Labor’s other regional health promises like the Geraldton Health Campus and the Mullewa Hospital.”
